Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, loosely packed (approx. 60g)
  • 1 cup (225g) full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup (30g) pine nuts, toasted or raw
  • 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the basil leaves.
  2. In a food processor, combine the basil, cottage cheese, pine nuts, and garlic.
  3. Pulse the mixture until roughly chopped. Then, with the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth, creamy pesto forms.
  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and lemon juice.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Enjoy with your favourite dish.